MSF: Unsecured bulk hose near miss

  • Safety Flash
  • Published on 17 March 2026
  • Generated on 17 March 2026
  • IMCA SF 05/26
  • 2 minute read

The Marine Safety Forum (MSF) published Safety Alert 25-17, relating to an incident in which a stored bulk hose moved in an unplanned way and almost struck a crew member. 

What happened?

During hose transfer operations on a platform supply vessel in challenging weather, a hose was left unsecured on deck. The hose subsequently slipped off the deck, nearly striking a crew member. The operation was promptly aborted by the Captain, and a debrief was held to discuss the incident.

What went wrong?

The vessel owner noted the following “key contributing factors”

  • Miscommunication between deck crew and crane operator.
  • Defective radio communication.
  • Insufficient hose length on deck.
  • Heavy weather conditions.

Lessons to learn

  • Communications: Ensure all operations begin only after clear communications are confirmed between all parties.
  • Ensure radio communications equipment remains in good order through regular inspection and maintenance.
  • Ensure that the right equipment – in this case, the sufficient length of hose - is available and properly secured before starting operations, especially in adverse weather.
  • Take particular care in heavy weather conditions:
    • Should we be doing this at all right now?
    • Can the task be done in a different way or can it be done later?

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